Setsubun
...another lesson in Japanese culture courtesy YoshikoSetsubun is a Japanese custom that celebrates the changing of the seasons from winter to spring; it takes place on Feb. 3.
The myth behind Setsubun is that a "monster" known as Oni resides in the house during winter; this monster resonates bad luck and dark moods. On Feb. 3 members of the household perform several rituals to relieve the house of Oni. Specific numbers of dried soy beans are consumed (the number eaten represents the age of the person eating them), and makizushi (known as maki rolls to foreigners) are biten into while facing the year's designated direction (Never Eat Shredded Wheat) of luck. Participants then verbally instruct Oni to vacate the premises and invite Huku, or happiness, inside.
In celebration of this ritual fathers often don masks and pretend to be Oni. The masks, which can be purchased in stores at this time of year, are either scary or cute, depending on the artist's interpretation of the monster. Children then pelt "Oni" with dried soy beans and drive him out of the house. The soy beans are later cleaned up, likely by mom.
Unfortunately, Setsubun, like many other Japanese cultural days, is not a stat. holiday.
Happiness this spring, everyone!
I am sure that Oni has been residing in my appartment for some time now. I am glad to hear that I can make him go away and that he will not be back again until next winter. You, me tomorrow at my place-Ill bring the beans....haha. Spring shall be sprung!
Tressa